Questions? 800-523-5874 | [email protected]
- Prepmaster™ Specimen Preparation Robot
- TEM Grids
- TEM Window Grids
- Omniprobe Nanomanipulation Systems
- K-kit Wet "Liquid" TEM Kit
- Specimen Mounts
- SEM Specimen Holders
- Index and Finder SEM Grids
- SEM for Forensics
- SEM Sample Preparation Station Materials
- Cryogenic Personal Protection Equipment
- Cryo Dewars & Flasks
- Cryogenic Grids & Accessories
- Cryogenic Vials & Racks
- Cooling Chambers & Ice Baths
- Prepmaster™ Specimen Preparation Robot
- Laboratory Microwave Ovens
- LYNX II Automated Tissue Processor
- EMS Poly III
- Microtomes
- Tissue Slicers
- Rapid Immersion Freezer
- Heaters & Chillers
- SEM Cooling Stage
- Glow Discharge Systems
- Sputter Coaters & Carbon Coaters
- Stages
- Freeze Dryers
- Critical Point Dryers
- Cryo-SEM Preparation System
- Specimen Transfer Systems
- Decontaminators
- Desiccators
- Centrifuges
- Dry Baths
- Stirrers, Hot Plates
- Vortexers & Magnetic Mixers
- Rotators & Rockers
- Ovens & Incubators
- Vibration Isolation
- Air Sampling
- Vacuum Pumps
EMS Technical Data Sheets
Flexible Mold
EMS Catalog #51012-55, 51012-60, 51012-65
Introduction
The rectangular flexible mold is made of very flexible transparent silicone rubber which makes it very easy to remove the mounts. The inner sides are polished, so the sides of the mounts get clear. The sides are also straight which makes it easier to fasten the mounts in a specimen holder.
Instructions
- Place the specimen in the center of the Flexible Mold and pour the resin into the mounting cup.
- When the resin has cured, loosen the mount by pulling the walls of the Flexible Mold out with your fingers, then pressing on the bottom of the cup.
- Eject the mount by squeezing the sides and pressing the bottom of the Flexible Mount.
- Remove any remaining resin before next use.
Using Epoxy
Form Mold can only be reused 8 - 10 times when using epoxy resins as silicone rubber is less resistant to epoxies.
Tip - To prolong the lifetime , apply a thin layer of Silicon Oil inside the cup before mounting. Apply with a small brush (supplied with or with cotton wool. Only apply a thin film to avoid mixing oil with the mounting material, resulting in softening.
Small Specimens
Do not stick small specimens directly onto the mounting cup using strong glue as it will be impossible to remove the mount from the cup without destroying it. Heat generated during the hardening of the glue may also damage the cup. Stick small specimens onto a thin plastic foil before mounting.
Excessive Heat Generation
When using Flexible Mold with small volume specimens, a relatively large amount of mounting resin may result in the generation of excessive heat. Very high temperatures can result in excessive shrinkage, formation of air bubbles in the mount, deformation of Flexible Mold and damage to the inner surface.
To remove excessive heat, place the mount in a cool place such as a cooled water bath or a refrigerator.
or
Mount in layers (about 15 mm at a time). Wait until the first layer is hardened before pouring the next layer.
Maintenance
Flexible Form can be cleaned with water and soap. Remove any remaining resin with a wooden spatula or similar (sharp objects may damage the cylinder).
It is important to clean the Flexible Mold after each use to ensure optimal use and longest lifetime.